Myanmar Puts Military in Charge of 60 Towns
Introduction
Myanmar's president, Min Aung Hlaing, gave military control to 60 towns. The military now has all power in these towns. At the same time, the Philippines, as leader of ASEAN, asked Myanmar to release more prisoners. They want the release of former leader Aung San Suu Kyi. They said a recent amnesty was a good step for talks.
Main Body
The new rules started on April 24. They cover towns in nine states and regions. The military will be in charge for 90 days. The government says this is to stop armed groups and bring order. General Ye Win Oo is the top commander. He gave power to local commanders. These commanders can now control security and legal matters. They can try civilians in military courts. Punishments can be long prison or death. This is the first big action by Min Aung Hlaing since he became president in April. Many people say the election was not free or fair. The military took power in February 2021. They removed the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi. After that, many protests started. Some protests became armed fights. On the same day, the Philippines, as ASEAN chair, said they want more prisoner releases. They specifically asked for Aung San Suu Kyi. They said the amnesty was a good step for talks. Thailand's foreign minister visited Min Aung Hlaing. He said Suu Kyi is in good health and safe. But he also said he is worried about her. Earlier in the week, Min Aung Hlaing set a 100-day time for peace talks with armed groups. He invited all groups to talk. Some groups signed a peace agreement in 2015. Others did not.
Conclusion
In short, Myanmar's government gave more power to the military in many towns. At the same time, they want to talk with armed groups. The international community, especially ASEAN, wants the release of political prisoners and a peaceful end to the crisis that started in 2021.